Speaking forward of the competitors, he defined: “This year has been really tough for me, obviously recovering from knee surgery. I'm coming back at a tournament (where) I've done really well in the past and played some amazing matches. I'm super excited to be here again and to get out there and play.

“I wouldn't say it was major surgery, but I had quite a serious surgery on my knee. It's taken me about five months to get back to even playing, moving and (ready to play) against these players. It's been difficult, but at times it's been amazing just to be home with my family. Tennis is a sport where you travel so much of the year and being home, for me, was important, but seeing everyone (else) play wasn't easy, at times. I'm just super excited that my knee is a bit better and I'm able to play now.”